The trend estimate for pig slaughterings fell for the eighth consecutive month, to 454,900. The industry is feeling pressure from pork imports which are at record levels and from a strong Australian dollar which is reducing export viability.

The trend estimate for cattle slaughterings rose for the sixth consecutive month, to 669,400. Strong domestic demand for beef and dry conditions in some areas are driving recent movements in cattle slaughtering numbers.

The trend estimate for sheep slaughterings rose for the fifth consecutive month, to 884,400. A combination of stronger demand and drier conditions in some areas were reported as increasing the number of sheep on the market.

JANUARY KEY FIGURES

Seasonally

Trend

LIVESTOCK SLAUGHTERED

Original

adjusted

estimate

'000

'000

'000

Cattle

532.1

664.4

669.4

Calves

40.3

99.1

107.0

Sheep

988.5

877.5

884.4

Lambs

1,315.0

1,383.8

1,403.8

Pigs

416.9

462.0

454.9

Seasonally

Trend

MEAT PRODUCED

Original

adjusted

estimate

tonnes

tonnes

tonnes

Beef

138,976

173,438

173,511

Veal

2,305

3,257

3,586

Mutton

21,370

18,766

19,062

Lamb

27,322

28,906

29,411

Pig meat

29,543

33,243

32,826

NOTES

INTRODUCTION

This publication presents statistics on livestock slaughterings and meat production. These statistics are based on a monthly collection from abattoirs and other major slaughtering establishments. More detailed information on this series can be obtained by contacting the ABS or by referring to the quarterly ABS publication Livestock Products, Australia(cat. no. 7215.0).

For more information about these and related statistics, contact John Moody on Hobart 03 6222 5867, or the National Information and Referral Service on 1300 135 070.